Upgrading NAC72 to 102 or NAP140 to 250?

Well, jumping from a 140 to a 250 is "two steps up" (e.g. 140-180-250), and definitely will bring the improvement you mention. I did that jump myself earlier this year.

However, before doing this at home, I tried it at work in place of my 110 (an even bigger difference). Curiously, after a few days in the system, I didn't really notice the difference anymore. When I compare this to my change from a 42 to 42.5, and then to a 32.5, and then adding a SNAPS2, the difference was much more long lasting.

I think the 102 is a good step up from the 72, but make sure that you get the NAPSC with it. (It's not much money compared to the cost of the 102.) However, it is only "one step up" (i.e. there is no pre-amp between the 72 and 102). Therefore, have you considered upgrading to an 82 instead? It's a bit more money, but offers a much bigger jump in performance. It also comes with an NAPSC, and allows you to add an additional Hi-Cap later when funds permit. Catch you later!

-=> Mike Hanson <=-

Smilies do not a forum make.

Chris:

Although I personally feel a 102 is much better than a 72, I am not familiar with your CD2. Make sure you try it with the 102 before purchase as the 102 is much more revealing of any flaws in the source. (Perhaps replacing the CD2 with a CDX may be more worthwhile.)

Before you make a decision, also try a Supercap on your 72. You will be amazed at what it does for the 72 plus will enable you to upgrade easily to 82 or 52 in the future.

Paul

I had a CD2 before I got my CDX and it's a lovely thing - a very satisfying and musical player, although not nearly so revealing, or quite so dynamic, as the CDX. I agree with the consensus - Chris would be much better off upgrading the preamp before the power, especially since he already has a Hicap. Cris, if you then add a Supercap to the 102, you'll be in heaven.

Don

Chris--

Given only those two choices I would opt for the 250. Couple of reasons.

First, there is a much bigger difference IMO between the 140 and 250 than there is between the 72 and 102.

Second, a 72/Hicap/250 seems to have a certain synergy, a cer tain "Je ne sais quoi" that I have never heard from a 102/Hicap/250.

Third, the 250 is 2 jumps up from the 140; the 102 only 1 jump from the 72. (Not to mention those who think the 72 better than the 102). If you want to really upgrade your preamp go t o the 82.

Finally, leave the CD2 alone--it is a great player. Don't bother moving to the CDX unless you are moving to a CDX/XPS.

Cheers,

Bobê

Chris -

Have you removed the tape-out and phono boards from your 72?

Its a free upgrade, mate.

- GregB
Freedom is not in finding the Holy Grail but in stopping the search for it

But you say you've heard the 250 in your system. Can you hear the 102 in your system, too? After all, you're the one who has to live with your choice.

The 102 is smoother than the 72, but the 72/250 is soooo coherent and articulate. Personally, I chose a 72/hicap/250 over an 82/hicap/140, but my listening is primariy LP. I don't know the CD2, so YMMV.

Phil